Mid-year performance review after being signed off sick with anxiety

[098765gk]

I was signed off sick with anxiety for around 2 months, but the whole of 2022 feels like a bit of an anxiety-ridden blur to be honest. I have recently returned to work and am on a phased return plan which is ending soon.

I have a mid-year performance review with my manager soon. I'm really nervous about it as I feel like I've not been performing well, and that there is nothing positive to say... I'm worried it will be used as a vehicle for giving me a formal warning or disciplinary or something.

I have no idea how to approach the meeting and how to prepare for it. I am feeling better recently, and am feeling more settled at work again but I'm dreading the performance review

It will probably be more about how you're feeling about the job, and your phased return, as well as perhaps setting targets for the future? I wouldn't worry - if you've been off for a lengthy period then there isn't actually any performance to measure in any meaningful way. It may be more of a chat that you expect.

Is your anxiety related to your work? If so, what needs changing? Maybe go into it with the mindset that you want it to work (easier said than done I know) and maybe they and/or you can come up with a plan to improve things?

Good luck 🙂

If it were me conducting your review, I would very much be focused on how you were feeling, are you getting the support you need, do you need any further adjustments etc rather than your actual performance. I’d also use it as an opportunity to focus on the positive aspects of your work and rebuilding your confidence, rather than nit picking. But it depends on your line manager and organisation - are they generally decent employers?

Thank you, you've really helped ease my fears around it.

Yes my employer is very understanding and supportive - I am really lucky in that respect. In fact, they (my manager and HR) keep asking about reasonable adjustments, but I'm never sure what to say or suggest.

I've had a phased return which has been really helpful, but I'm not sure what kind of long-term adjustments are possible or what would help.

My review is this week and I'm feeling quite anxious about it. I feel like it wasn't the best idea to have it given the circumstances as I'm worrying about it a lot...